The Adrenal Glands
The adrenal glands are situated on top of each kidney. The outer adrenal cortex produces the hormones cortisol and aldosterone which are essential to life. The inner adrenal medulla produces non-essential hormones such as adrenaline which is involved in the body's stress response.

Sign in free to see the rest of this lesson, the R.E.C.I.P.E. recall steps and the quiz
BrainCake is free. Make an account in seconds and pick up where this page stops.
Key terms in this lesson
- hormone
- A chemical messenger, secreted by an endocrine gland directly into the blood, that travels to target cells bearing complementary receptors and brings about a response.
More in Hormonal Communication
- Endocrine Glands
- Hormones
- Adrenal Cortex
- Adrenal Medulla
- Pancreas
- Blood glucose concentration
- Insulin
- Glucagon
All 11 lessons in Hormonal Communication · All AQA A-level Biology topics